Major Policy Change Makes Lock and Dam Upgrades More Likely

May 6, 2020
A sign that says 1.1 billion tons of increased freight will move on our inland waterways by 2040

Today, the Senate Environment & Public Works (EPW) Committee passed America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2020 (AWIA). The bill included within it the Committee’s version of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) which had great news for Illinois farmers relying on our inland waterways infrastructure and the international market it provides.

 

The bill adjusts the cost-share for construction and major rehabilitation of inland waterways projects from 50/50 to 35/65.

 

This means that instead of 50 percent of the funds for rehab and construction coming from the Inland Waterways Trust Fund and 50 percent of the funds coming from the federal government, the split will now be 35/65 with the federal government picking up 65 percent of the tab.

This shift in the cost share provisions was a key component to getting Olmsted lock and dam up and running in August 2018, despite projected cost overruns of $3 billion and a projected completion date of 2026. Steady funding brings projects to completion faster.


The shift was a priority for the Waterways Council Inc, of which IL Corn is a member, and is a significant step toward ensuring inland waterways construction and major rehabilitation projects advance more efficiently. The change could provide up to $1 billion in additional construction funds over 10 years.

Evan playing in dirt
By Tara Desmond September 22, 2025
Two year old Evan on the farm.
Jason at his farm in Manito
By Tara Desmond September 19, 2025
Jason Proehl isn’t just a fifth-generation farmer—he’s also an attorney who helps families protect their farms for the next generation.
Corn stalks in focus, with a combine harvesting corn in a field on a sunny day.
By Lyndi Allen September 18, 2025
Illinois farmers are concerned about their farms and the need for changes in production costs. Policy action is needed to expand ethanol blends, improve market access, and address high input costs.
man on farm working on equipment
By Tara Desmond September 18, 2025
It Seemed Routine—Until It Wasn’t
Collin Watters at podium
By Tara Desmond September 18, 2025
IL Corn joined the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council and Illinois Economic Development Association on a Japan trade mission, strengthening global markets for Illinois corn and ethanol and fostering new opportunities for farmers.
Winners
September 18, 2025
An air filter made from corn? That's right -- this company and more are coming up with innovative solutions using corn.
Show More